The State Tobacco Control Cell, National Tobacco Control programme observed “World No Tobacco Day on the theme “Protecting children from tobacco industry interference” at New Sendenyu Village, Tseminyu. This year’s celebration was held in Tseminyu to honour and encourage the grassroot movement.
Dr Meribeni Odyuo, Director Dental ,DH&FW , the Special guest of the event in her keynote address, highlighted tactics of tobacco industry to attract young children. Addressing it as a collective effort as responsible adults, Dr. Odyuo said, “We have a moral reponsiblity to protect our children. We need to educate children on the dangers, enforce strong tobacco control policy, engage people at all levels, parent to children advocacy, complete ban on tobacco and youth advocacy. Seek cessation services for tobacco users, by taking small steps, tobacco free environment should be cultivated.” She further urged students to stay free from tobacco.
Dr. Arenla Walling Joint Director and State Nodal Officer (NTCP) H&FW, highlighted the Tobacco Free village and School campaign and declared New Sendenyu Village as Tobacco Free Village and GPS New Sendenyu and Binzen Pre School as Tobacco Free Schools during the event. The certificates were given away by the Special guest and guest of honor.
Ruokuosetuo Tetso (NCS), EAC (Tsogim) Office of the Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu, the Guest of Honor, highlighted the COTPA 2003 laws especially section 6 a& b. Juvenile justice act section 77 and FSSAI 2011 act. He also warned against use of e-cigarette. The Administrator highlighted the importance of right to education, where we need to create tobacco free environment. “If needed, villages should impose fine on defaulters,” said Tetso.
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Shewsenle Kent, President of the Mothers Asociation, New sendenyu Village shared the journey of the Village towards tobacco free status. In 2017, talaab and alcohol was banned by the association. In 2018 during the election, house to house and car checking was initiated. In 2022 with support of the church during the general body meeting, resolution passed and in 2024 after orientation, it was decided to declare as tobacco free village.
The programme was chaired by Asenuo Kemp, Chairman of the school management committee, invocation by Pastor Rokuolie Thong Seb, and a special presentation by Binzen Pre School. This was followed by certificate presentations by SNO (NTCP) and vote of thanks by Linoka K Awomi, DTCC Consultant NTCP.
